Beta-lactam antibiotics include Penicillins, Cephalosporins, and Carbapenams and treat a variety of bacterial infections. They prevent the growth of bacteria by damaging the cell wall, bacteria's strongest protection from the environment.

"Beta&#45;lactam antibiotics treat a variety of bacterial infections. They prevent the growth of bacteria by damaging the cell wall, bacteria&#39;s strongest protection from the environment.<br><br>
Bacteria are everywhere. Some can be &#34;good&#34; bacteria but infections can occur when large amounts of any type of bacteria sneak past the body&#39;s natural defenses and multiply. Bacteria multiply by growing and splitting in half. One of the last steps in this process is sealing off the opening in the cell wall.<br><br>
Beta&#45Lactam antibiotics have a commonly shaped structural piece, called the &#34;Beta&#45;Lactam ring,&#34; which allows these drugs to bind proteins and, in turn, prevent the formation of a cell wall. Beta&#45;lactam antibiotics attach to and inactivate enzymes in the bacterial cell membrane. This interferes with how bacteria form their cell wall, which stops bacteria from growing and multiplying. "

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:-asthma-bowel disease, like colitis-eczema-kidney disease-phenylketonuria-an unusual or allergic reaction to penicillin, cephalosporins, other antibiotics or medicines, foods, tartrazine or other dyes, or preservatives-pregnant or trying to get pregnant-breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Shake well before using. Use a specially marked spoon or dropper to measure every dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think your are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:-allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue-breathing problems-fever-new symptoms of infection-redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth-unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):-diarrhea-headache-nausea, vomiting-sore mouth or tongue-stomach upset